Goals? Don't mind if I do

[CowboyinAmerica 2,923]

 

Davos, Switzerland -- During the first two years of her VHL career, HC Davos Dynamo forward Antonia Bucatini had settled into a distinct role for the team. She was the facilitator - the one who would win the face-off, make sure she was protecting the puck, and pass it off to the real scorers. Her 121 assists to just 57 goals in those first two years showed exactly what she was expected to do.

 

But interestingly, things have changed in Bucatini's third and fourth seasons. Even without changing much about her training style and Davos' team composition, Bucatini magically started scoring more goals in Season 96, finishing with 44 goals and 37 assists. Now in Season 97, things have gone to a whole new level - the ratio has evened out to 23 goals and 22 assists, but those 23 goals places Bucatini tied for second in the VHL, just one behind the league lead.

 

Bucatini recently told the press she's not sure why the switch has flipped - but she's certainly not going to argue. "If it's best for the team, I'll do it. And honestly, what's better for the team than scoring some goals?" Bucatini asked. "Past season and a half, I've been doing a lot better putting the puck in the net. And I don't plan on stopping any time soon."

 

Indeed, her close partnership with Gianfranco del Rocco has paid dividends on that front, with Del Rocco acting as a frequent facilitator for Bucatini's goals so far this season. Will that lead to Bucatini leading the league in scoring? She says it's not her goal, but won't shy away from it either.

 

"I'm always for the team above all else. If we're winning games, however that happens, I'm happy," Bucatini added. "But I'd be lying to you if I said I was looking for my name at the top of those scoring charts. I think I'm certainly capable of big things, and I'm excited to see it continue to play out through the rest of the season if I can get myself to the very top. Big things ahead, Davos fans."

[Victor 11,052]